Rob Burton, Director of Corporate and Regulatory Affairs at White Cloud Electronic Cigarettes, served as a panelist at the event.

"The e cigarette industry is constantly evolving, adapting to consumer demand and new technology," Burton said. "From the moment we entered the field, we knew our product would have to be a game changer. From everyone at White Cloud, we're extremely honored to accept such a prestigious award."

The Global Tobacco Networking Forum awards five honors of separate distinction each year. Other categories include "Most Outstanding Service to the Industry," "Most Promising New Product Introduction," and "Most Impressive Public Service Initiative." The objective of the annual event is to publicly recognize the accomplishments and contributions of the tobacco industry's most vital players, as well as to "create a positive buzz in a challenging environment."

In association with various sponsors from around the world, Tobacco Reporter has presented the Golden Leaf Awards for excellence within the tobacco industry every year since the first event was organized in 2006. As of this year's event, White Cloud Electronic Cigarettes is the first e-cigarette company to receive a Golden Leaf Award, an honor that had previously been solely granted to tobacco-related businesses, products and services.

About White Cloud Electronic Cigarettes:

White Cloud Electronic Cigarettes is a vertically integrated manufacturer and marketer of electronic cigarettes. The company is one of the first to produce a completely disposable electronic nicotine delivery product using lightweight food grade BPA-free thermoplastics. Its product line includes Fling Original, Fling Mini, Cirrus, ClearDraw, SmoothDraw, ShotGun Tips, ChargeBolt and Squid USB charging systems. Offering over 18 flavors in up to 6 nicotine strengths, the company sells its products worldwide through its retail locations, online store, and third party retailers, wholesalers, and distributors. The company also licenses its proprietary accessory designs through contract manufacturing and OEM platforms.